Disposable absorbent article with profiled absorbent core

ABSTRACT

A disposable absorbent article has a central body defining a first waist end region including a first end edge, a second waist end region spaced longitudinally from the first waist end region and including a second end edge, and a crotch region positioned therebetween. An absorbent core is situated between the end edges, and includes a plurality of elastics incorporated therewith such that the core is substantially laterally contracted in a narrowed region about the elastics. The absorbent core includes at least one end region that is substantially non-elasticized and has a lateral width substantially wider than that of the narrowed region.

The present application is a Continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 12/925,765, filed Oct. 28, 2010 (pending), which claims thebenefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.61/279,923 filed on Oct. 28, 2009 (which is hereby incorporated byreference for all purposes and made a part of the present disclosure).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to disposable absorbentarticles, such as baby diapers, training pants, adult incontinenceproducts, feminine hygiene articles, and the like. More particularly,the present invention relates to improved absorbent core components,disposable absorbent articles utilizing such absorbent core components,and a method of making or manufacturing same.

An advantageous application of the various concepts and embodiments ofthe present invention is one directed to baby diapers. For this reason,much of the exemplary descriptions provided herein are directed todiapers. The invention extends, of course, to applications beyonddiapers.

Most absorbent articles used today as baby diapers have a configurationsimilar to the absorbent article 10 depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B. Theconventional absorbent article 10 is shown in a laid out flat positionin FIG. 1A, and in cross sectional view in FIG. 1B. This absorbentarticle 10 includes an outer-side fluid impermeable backsheet 101, abodyside, fluid permeable nonwoven coverstock or topsheet 102, and anabsorbent construction 110 positioned between the backsheet 101 andtopsheet 102. An absorbent core 103 provides the primary component ofthe absorbent construction 110 and is designed and positioned to receiveand retain bodily fluids. The absorbent construction 110 may alsoinclude at least one fluid management, fluid distribution and/or surgelayer 104 a.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the backsheet 101 and topsheet 102 together form ordefine a chassis or central body 105 of the absorbent article 10. Thecentral body 105 may be described as having a first longitudinal endedge 112 a, a second longitudinal end edge 112 b, and a longitudinalcenterline YY that extends through the central body 105, bisecting boththe first and second end edges 112 a, 112 b. Left and side margins 106a, 106 b extend from one end edge 112 a to the other end edge 112 b.Each end edge 112 a, 112 b partly defines waist regions 113 a, 113 b ofthe central body 105 which are generally characterized as having alateral width significantly greater than a lateral width of a centralregion or crotch region 114 of the central body 105. The waist regions113 a, 113 b are designed to allow the absorbent article 10 to be placedabout the waist of the user. In this respect, the first and second waistregions 113 a, 113 b may be described as front and rear waist regions113 a, 113 b, respectively. The conventional absorbent article 10further includes a fastening means 104 attached to each side of the rearwaist region 113 a. The fastening means 104 are extendible and thereby,fastenable to a corresponding side of the front waist region 113 b. Thefastening means 104 helps to retain the article 10 around and on thebody of the user. The absorbent article 10 also includes a means forelasticizing 107 the article 10 to maintain closure and sealing aroundthe user's legs. The elasticizing means 107 (e.g., leg cuffs and/or legcutters) are necessarily positioned outboard of and along longitudinalside margins 106 a, 106 b of the absorbent construction 110. Referringto FIG. 1A, the conventional absorbent core 110 is centrally positionedin and about the crotch region 114 of the absorbent article 10.

Currently, most diaper cores are made from mixtures of fibers andsuperabsorbent particles, specifically cellulose based fibers derivedfrom wood pulp and superabsorbent particles (SAP) derived frompolyacrylic acid derivatives. An absorbent composite that isparticularly suited for application in or with the disposable absorbentarticles introduced herein is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,540,853.SAP-nonwoven absorbent composites of the type disclosed in this patentreference are available to the diaper manufacturing process in roll formand allow much greater freedom for the design of absorbent cores.Nevertheless, because fluff pulp-superabsorbent cores are generallyprovided as a continuous stream or web of absorbent material, thesimpler and most cost efficient processes require the absorbent core tobe maintained in a generally rectangular shape.

These cores are typically formed into rectangular shapes that aredesigned for incorporation into an absorbent article. The core shape,particularly its width, is maintained at dimensions that accommodateplacement within a diaper corresponding with the crotch area of theuser. Moreover, it is preferred in many applications for the absorbentcore to take on a nearly hourglass shape. Such diaper cores are known inthe art as providing a narrower crotch region that presents a better fitand comfort for the user. The hourglass shape also provides widerregions at the longitudinal ends of the core, which enhances theabsorbency and leakage control capability of the diaper at those regionsabove the central crotch region.

FIG. 1C illustrates another prior art disposable absorbent article 10′.The absorbent article 10′ employs a design in which an absorbent core110′ is reduced in width in the crotch region 114′, but is wider at thefront and rear waist regions 113 a′, 113 b′. The result is an absorbentcore 110′ having a more hourglass shape. To achieve this desiredhourglass shaped core, a rectangular absorbent core section is cut froma continuous web of absorbent material and shaped further, particularlyin forming the narrow central region.

As known in the art, the preferred diaper assembly process is asubstantially linear and efficient machine directed process thatproduces a high volume of packaged products. Because of the nature ofthe consumer product as a disposable, high frequency of use item and theabundance of competing products and alternative products (e.g.,re-usable cloth diapers), it is imperative to maintain the low cost ofthe final product. Accordingly, it is also imperative to control thecomplexity of the manufacturing process and to minimize steps andmaterial waste. This presents a technical challenge to one attempting tocreate alternative shapes and functionalities in the conventionaldisposable absorbent article. For example, although an hourglass shapeddiaper core is generally desirable or, in some applications, a corehaving distinct areas of absorbency, additional cutting or forming stepsor increased material cost may make the alternative design lesseffective.

In any event, absorbent core configurations achieving furtherfunctionalities and/or improved fit and comfort for the sure aredesirable. Caution must be exercised, however, to minimize material costand manufacturing complexity.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is particularly directed to achieving absorbentcore configurations that easily accommodate the conventional disposableabsorbent article and maintains comfort and fit for the user. Suchabsorbent core configurations, and disposable absorbent articlesemploying same, are readily made at high volume without overburdeningthe manufacturing process with additional steps and material waste. Inthis respect, the invention provides improved hourglass or nearlyhourglass shaped core constructions by providing and presenting moreusable and flexible core components or core elements and incorporatingthese components into highly effective diapers, training pants and thelike.

In one aspect, a disposable absorbent article is provided having acentral body defining a first waist end region including a firstlongitudinal end edge, a second waist end region spaced longitudinallyfrom the first waist end region and including a second longitudinal endedge, and a crotch region positioned therebetween. An absorbent core issituated between the end edges, and includes a first core element formedby materials imparting absorbent properties and a second core elementformed by materials imparting absorbent properties. The second coreelement partially superimposes the first core element to form amulti-layer primary absorbent region of the absorbent core.

In another aspect, a disposable absorbent article is provided having acentral body defining a first waist end region including a first endedge, a second waist end region spaced longitudinally from the firstwaist end region and including a second end edge, and a crotch regionpositioned therebetween. The absorbent core is situated between the endedges, and includes a plurality of elastics incorporated therewith suchthat the core is substantially laterally contracted in a narrowed regionabout the elastics. The absorbent core includes at least one end regionthat is substantially non-elasticized, and the at least one end regionhas a lateral width substantially wider than a lateral width of thenarrowed region.

These exemplary aspects and other aspects of the invention areillustrated through FIGS. 1-14 and/or the Detailed Description providedbelow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a simplified plan view illustration of a prior art disposableabsorbent article having an absorbent core;

FIG. 1B is a simplified cross-sectional view illustration of a prior artdisposable absorbent article of the type depicted in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1C is simplified plan view illustration of another prior artdisposable absorbent article;

FIG. 2A is a simplified plan view illustration of a disposable absorbentarticle, with a partial cut-out revealing an absorbent core, accordingto the present invention;

FIG. 2B is a perspective view illustration of the disposable absorbentarticle in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2C is an isolated plan view of the absorbent core in the disposableabsorbent article in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2D is a cross sectional view illustrating a longitudinal absorbentprofile of the absorbent article in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2E is a cross sectional view illustrating a lateral absorbentprofile of the absorbent article in FIG. 2A, across lines 2E-2E;

FIG. 3A is a simplified plan illustration of yet another embodiment of adisposable absorbent article according to the present invention;

FIG. 3B is an isolated perspective view of the absorbent core in thedisposable absorbent article in FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A is a simplified plan illustration of an absorbent core accordingto yet another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the absorbent core in FIG. 4A;

FIG. 5A is a simplified plan illustration of an absorbent core accordingto yet another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5B is a simplified plan illustration of a disposable absorbentarticle employing an absorbent core, according to yet another embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 6A is a simplified illustration of an absorbent core according toyet another embodiment of the present invention, in a pre-tensionedstate;

FIG. 6B is a simplified illustration of the absorbent core in FIG. 6A ina relaxed or contracted state;

FIG. 6C is a simplified plan illustration of a disposable absorbentarticle, including a pair of the absorbent cores in FIG. 6A, accordingto the present invention;

FIG. 6D is a simplified cross-sectional view of the disposable absorbentarticle in FIG. 6C across line 6D--6D;

FIG. 6E is a simplified plan illustration of one variation of theabsorbent core in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6F is an isolated perspective view of an absorbent core utilizing apair of the absorbent core elements in FIG. 6E;

FIG. 7A is a simplified plan illustration of an alternate absorbent coreaccording to the present invention, shown in a tensioned state;

FIG. 7B is a further illustration of the absorbent core in FIG. 7A in arelaxed or contracted state;

FIG. 7C is a simplified illustration of a variation of the absorbentcore in FIG. 7A, in a tensioned state, according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 7D is an illustration of the absorbent core in FIG. 7C in a relaxedor contracted state;

FIG. 8A is a simplified perspective view of an elasticated absorbentcore, shown in a tensioned state, according to the present invention;

FIG. 8B is an exploded view of the absorbent core in FIG. 8A;

FIG. 8C is a simplified, perspective view illustration of the absorbentcore in FIG. 8A, shown in a relaxed or contracted state, according tothe present invention;

FIG. 8D is a simplified, perspective view of an alternative elasticatedabsorbent core, according to the present invention;

FIG. 8E is an exploded view of yet another variation of an elasticatedabsorbent core, according to the present invention;

FIG. 9A is a perspective illustration of an elasticated absorbent core,according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of a disposable absorbent articleutilizing the absorbent core in FIG. 9A;

FIG. 10A is a simplified illustration of an absorbent core elementaccording to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10B is a further illustration of the absorbent core element in FIG.10A, shown in an applied state;

FIG. 10C is a simplified illustration of an absorbent core utilizing theabsorbent core elements in FIG. 10A, as shown in an applied state;

FIG. 10D is a perspective view of an alternate absorbent core utilizingthe absorbent core elements in FIG. 10A;

FIG. 10E is a simplified plan illustration of a pair of absorbent coreelements utilized in an alternative absorbent core, according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 10F is a simplified plan perspective illustration of an absorbentcore utilizing the core elements in FIG. 10E;

FIG. 10G is a simplified plan illustration of yet another alternateabsorbent core, according to the present invention;

FIG. 11A is a simplified perspective illustration of an alternativeabsorbent core, according to the present invention;

FIG. 11B is a simplified plan illustration of a source of elasticatedabsorbent core element shown in a tensioned state, according to yetanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11C is a simplified plan illustration of the source of absorbentcore element in FIG. 11B, shown in a relaxed or contracted state;

FIG. 11D is a simplified perspective illustration of a web or source ofdual absorbent core elements of the type shown in FIG. 11C;

FIG. 11E is a simplified plan illustration of a web or source ofalternative absorbent core elements according to yet another embodimentof the present invention, shown in a tensioned state;

FIG. 11F is a simplified plan illustration of the web or source ofabsorbent core in FIG. 11E, as shown in a relaxed or contracted state;

FIG. 12 is a simplified plan illustration of yet another alternateabsorbent core according to the present invention

FIG. 13A is a simplified plan illustration of an absorbent core in FIG.12, in a pre-applied state, according to the present invention;

FIG. 13B is a simplified plan illustration of an absorbent core elementaccording to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13C is a perspective, exploded view of a dual layered absorbentcore utilizing the absorbent core element in FIG. 13B, according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 13D is a plan illustration of the absorbent core in FIG. 13C;

FIG. 13E is a plan illustration highlighting the varying absorbency inthe pair of absorbent elements utilized in the absorbent core of FIG.13D;

FIG. 13F is a plan illustration highlighting the varying absorbency inthe absorbent core in FIG. 13E, according to the present invention;

FIG. 14A is a simplified plan illustration of an absorbent core elementaccording to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14B is a plan illustration of the absorbent core element of FIG.14A in a post-folding stage;

FIG. 14C is a simplified plan illustration of an alternative resultantabsorbent core according to the present invention;

FIGS. 15A-C are simplified illustrations of stages in the manufacture ofa core construction from a web of core elements, according to theinvention; and

FIGS. 16A-B are simplified illustrations of a method of laterallyelasticize a core construction of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed, in one respect, to developing andutilizing alternate absorbent core designs that maintain or improve thecomfort and fit of the absorbent article while also maintaining orimproving the absorbency and sealing capability of the core and theabsorbent article. Various embodiments of the invention place particularemphasis on selective placement and shaping of commercially availableabsorbent materials, while maintaining the cost efficiency andmanufacturability of the resultant disposable absorbent article. In oneaspect, emphasis is directed to selective placement and varying ofabsorbent materials along the longitudinal and/or lateral direction(i.e., absorbent profile) to achieve a certain functionality andefficiency. Selected absorbent profiles provide regions or expansewithin the resultant core construction exhibiting advantageous oroptimal absorbent or absorption capacity per unit area (sometimesreferred to herein as “absorbent density” or “absorption density”). Asmentioned briefly above, various aspects of the invention areparticularly applicable to baby diapers (and also, training pants). Forthis reason, much of the description and illustrations herein areprovided in the context of diapers. It will become apparent to oneskilled in the art provided with the present disclosure, however, thatthe invention, and its various aspects, are also applicable to otherdisposable absorbent articles and absorbent core constructions. Thedetailed descriptions and illustrations of inventive embodiments shouldnot, therefore, be construed as limiting the invention.

FIGS. 2A and 2B depict a disposable absorbent article 20, in the form ofa diaper, embodying various aspects of the present invention, includingan improved absorbent core construction 210 (see also FIG. 2C). Theabsorbent article 20 has a backsheet 201 and a topsheet that is removedin FIG. 2A to reveal the absorbent core construction 210. Together, thecombination of the backsheet 201 and topsheet helps to define a chassisor central body 205 of the absorbent article 20. The central body 205also provides a first waist end region 213 a, including a firstlongitudinal end edge 212 a (or simply, first end edge 212 a), a secondwaist end region 213 b, including a second longitudinal end edge 212 b(or second end edge), and a longitudinal centerline YY extending thelength of the central body 205 to bisect the first and second end edges212 a, 212 b. Referring to FIG. 2A, the waist regions 213 a, 213 b maybe identified with the portions of the absorbent article 20 and thecentral body 205 that are generally positioned vertically, and above andabout the thighs of the user when the absorbent article 20 is worn.

The central body 205 also helps define a crotch region 214 locatedgenerally centrally between the first and second waist regions 213 a,213 b and about a lateral centerline XX. As is readily known toconsumers and manufacturers alike, much of the crotch region 214 ispositioned generally horizontally and/or is curved upwards when thearticle 20 is in use. The absorbent core construction 210 is preferablycentered and supported about the crotch region 214 between the backsheet201 and topsheet 202. In such an arrangement, the absorbent construction210 is placed in a nearly optimal position to receive bodily exudateswhen the absorbent article 20 is in use. The absorbent construction 210is also described herein as having a first longitudinal end 207 a (orsimply, first end 207 a) and a second longitudinal end 207 b (or secondend 207 b) spaced longitudinally from the first end 212 a and second end212 b of the central body 205, respectively. In some embodiments, thefirst and second ends 207 a, 207 b of the absorbent construction 210 maynot be clearly defined, e.g., as an edge, line, or point. In suchembodiments, the terms first and second ends are used to identifygenerally the margins of the absorbent construction or absorbent corespaced furthest along the longitudinal direction from the lateralcenterline XX. In other embodiments, the first and second ends may notbe defined by one core component or element, but by multiple componentsor elements.

To facilitate description and illustration, the absorbent coreconstruction 210 is often illustrated and described as consisting onlyof layers of absorbent materials, as illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2C. Theabsorbent construction 210 is, therefore, simply referred to herein asan absorbent core 210. As will also become apparent with thedescriptions of various embodiment of the invention, the absorbent core210 may be composed of more than one independently applied corecomponent or absorbent core element having significantly enhancedabsorbent properties. In the embodiment of FIGS. 2A-2C, for example, theabsorbent core 210 includes a first absorbent core element 211 a and asecond absorbent core element 211 b that are applied separately duringassembly. The absorbent core elements 211 a, 211 b may be constructedfrom any combination of nonwoven material, absorbent fibers and/orsuperabsorbent particles, as briefly discussed above. In thisembodiment, the form of the absorbent core element 211 a, 211 b deviatesfrom the conventional rectangular shape and takes on an irregular,non-rectangular shape that Applicants have discovered provides certainbenefits or helps to achieve specific core functionalities and shapes.

As shown further in FIGS. 2B and 2C, the first and second absorbent coreelements 211 a, 211 b are preferably provided in a generally trapezoidalshape. Among other things, the irregular shape of the core element 211is conducive to forming an hourglass shaped absorbent core. In thisembodiment, the first and second trapezoidal core elements 211 a, 211 bare preferably made of the same or substantially similar absorbentmaterials and, more preferably, originate from the same source or web ofabsorbent core composite to facilitate and ease manufacturing. In oneaspect of the invention, the absorbent core elements 211 a, 211 b arealso of the same shape, and thus, one core element may be substantiallyindistinguishable from another except for the position or orientationtaken by the core element in the final assembly of the resultantabsorbent core. This commonality and consistency facilitatesmanufacturing and. ultimately, helps to control product cost. Forconvenience, the core elements 211 a, 211 b may be referred to simplyusing the same reference numeral (i.e., 211). It should be noted,however, that other applications and further embodiments may requireabsorbent core elements having different properties or characteristics(e.g., absorbent properties) so as to achieve a particular overallabsorbent core design or capability. The absorbent core elements mayalso take on very different shapes and configurations, as will beillustrated in other embodiments described in this Detailed Description.

The trapezoid shaped core elements 211 may be formed and applied by anynumber of suitable means including vacuum forming techniques, cuttingwith the aid of rotary dies, and cutting using waterjet devices.Referring to the top core element 211 a in FIG. 2C, the width of eachtrapezoidal shaped absorbent core element 211 is tapered from a widefirst end 217 a or wide section to a narrow second end 217 b or narrowsection. As applied on the absorbent article 20, each trapezoidal shapedabsorbent core element 211 is preferably positioned in alignment(co-incident) with the longitudinal centerline YY of the absorbentarticle 20 with the wide end 217 a located proximate one of the waistregions 213 of the central body 205 and the narrow end 217 b locatedmore inwardly. The two core elements 211 are partially, mutuallyoverlaid or superimposed near the center of the crotch region 214 suchthat the overlaid narrower sections form a dual layered section 250(distinguished through use of cross-hatching in FIG. 2C) of theabsorbent core 210. Moreover, the two core elements 211 are positionedas substantially mirror images of one another such that the resultantabsorbent core 210 is generally symmetric about the longitudinalcenterline YY and about the lateral centerline XX. In thisconfiguration, the wider ends 217 a of the core elements 211 provide, orcoincide with, the longitudinal ends 217 of the resultant absorbent core210.

It should be noted that because the two core elements 211 are identicalin shape and in substance, application and positioning of the coreelements 211 within the article 20 may be simplified. The core elements211 may be applied separately or via separate sub-processes. The coreelements 211 may also come from the same source or web of absorbentmaterial and may be applied generally together via the samesub-processes with one core element being flipped, rotated, or otherwisefurther manipulated to reach its ultimate position adjacent the othercore element 211.

Referring specifically to FIG. 2C, the resultant, two-element, absorbentcore 210 features, therefore, a narrow mid-section or central region M0that is positioned proximate the lateral centerline XX in the crotchregion 214. This narrowing of the central region M0 translates toimproved user comfort as well as compatibility with the leg sealingcomponents of the absorbent article 20. The greater amount of absorbentmaterial per unit of area in the narrower central region M0 and morespecifically, in the multi-layered section 250, provides greater orincreased absorbency in the portion of the absorbent article 210 thathas the greatest need for it. Accordingly, the multi-layered section 250may be referred to as the primary absorbent region 250. Also, theresultant absorbent core 210 is wider upward from the crotch region 214toward the front and rear longitudinal ends 207 a, 207 b (i.e., theupper absorbent regions). This increased expanse of core materialincreases the absorbent coverage in these upper regions of the absorbentarticle 210. The extra core material also helps to seal and preventleakage in and from the waist regions 213 of the article 210.

To facilitate the present description, the absorbent core 20 may bedescribed as having a narrow central region or midsection M0, and a pairof end regions E1, E2 on opposite sides of the central region M0. Thelocations or bordering of these regions are only generally defined (forpurposes of the present description). In various embodiments, theprimary absorbent region 250 is situated substantially in the centralregion M0, but may extend longitudinally into the end regions E1, E2.The end regions E1, E2 may also be referred to as upper absorbentregions as these regions are generally positioned above the centralregion M0 when the absorbent article is in use.

The graphical illustration of FIG. 2D illustrates the increase anddecrease in the concentration of absorbent material in the absorbentarticle 20 along the longitudinal centerline YY from one waist endregion 213 a to the other waist end region 213 b. This graphicalillustration represents, therefore, the longitudinal absorbency profileof the article 20 from one end 212 a to the other end 212 b. Theillustration also helps describe profiled cores according to the presentinvention as an absorbent construction having marked variations inabsorbency (absorbent capacity per unit area (e.g., square inch) orabsorbent densities) along specified directions or at specifiedlocations on the central body 205. As explained above, the greaterconcentration of absorbent material provided by the two layers of coreelements 211 a, 211 b provide high absorbency at the crotch region 214of the absorbent article 20. The absorbent article 210 also exhibitsabsorbency per unit area near the waist regions 213 a, 213 b as impartedby the end regions E1, E2 of the core 210, although it is significantlydecreased from that which characterizes the primary absorbent region250. Nevertheless, the core elements 211 extend sufficiently upward intothe waist regions 213 a, 213 b to expand and extend the absorbentcoverage of the article 210. Beyond the absorbent core 210, theabsorbency (and absorbency per unit area) of the disposable absorbentarticle 20 drops off significantly as expected. FIG. 2E illustrates thelateral absorbency profile of the core 210 along a lateral directiondemarcated by the line LL-LL in FIG. 2A. This line LL-LL is actuallylocated below the lateral centerline XX. The lateral absorbent profileillustrates a relatively narrow absorbent region with relatively highabsorbency and/or absorbent density.

In the descriptions provided herein, the inventive core may be describedas a profiled core. In the present context, this description relates tothe varying absorbency imparted upon the absorbent article alongspecific directions or at specified locations on the central body. Italso refers to the varying physical contour of the resultant absorbentcore—which is illustrated by the absorbent profiles in FIGS. 2D and 2E.It should be noted that in some applications, variation in absorbentdensities may be achieved by using core materials of different absorbentproperties in lieu of, or in addition to core materials of substantiallysimilar absorbent properties.

In developing the various configurations provided herein, optimal use ofabsorbent materials is an important design consideration. A balance isoften struck between achieving high absorbency in the article andmaintaining low material cost. This also requires controlling over useand over concentration of absorbent material so as to prevent lumps fromforming or cause components to impinge upon the user's skin, therebycompromising the comfort of the user. Without care, an irregular coreprofile may also negatively impact the shape of the absorbent core whenworn and lead to stressing the leakage prevention mechanisms of thearticle (e.g., elasticized leg cuffs and leg gathers). Thus, aside fromcost considerations, the absorbent profiles proposed are not simply theresult of laying out as much absorbent material as possible.

As discussed above, the design considerations accounted for also includemanufacturability and ease of assembly. Very often these attributestranslates to cost efficiency in the resultant product, as well asincreased quality of construction. In this respect, the presentinvention achieves improved product designs, including configurationsthat achieve specific absorbent properties and/or specific shapeswithout sacrificing or burdening manufacturability. One feature of theinvention that helps achieve these objectives is the use ofsubstantially identical core elements to create various core shapes,including irregular shapes (e.g., non-rectangular), and absorbentprofiles. The selection of core elements also provides design andmanufacturing flexibility as FIG. 2C helps to illustrate.

As an example, the inventive configuration and selection of coreelements 211 allow the manufacturer of the absorbent article 20 toreadily vary or fine tune the shape of the absorbent core 210 anddisposable absorbent article 20 by adjusting the distance X between thelongitudinal end 217 a of the first core element 211 a and thelongitudinal end 217 b of the second core element 211 b. In this way,the overall length L of the absorbent core 210 may be adjusted toaccommodate different size absorbent articles. Such a linear adjustmentmay be easily made in a substantially linear assembly process of theabsorbent core. This adjustment also allows desired lateral orlongitudinal absorbent profiles to be achieved, including enlarging orreducing the primary absorbent region. The manufacturer can also makefurther modifications to the absorbent profile and the overalldimensions of the core by adjusting the length C and widths A and B ofthe individual absorbent core elements.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrates an alternately profiled absorbent core 310utilized in an absorbent article 30 and composed of identical absorbentcore elements 311 a, 311 b having an alternate shape (wherein likeelements are referred to using like elements). In this embodiment, afirst, rectangular shaped absorbent core element 311 a is partiallyoverlaid or superimposed over at least a second rectangular shapedabsorbent core element 311 b to produce an absorbent core 310 of adifferent shape and absorbent profile. Key features of this embodimentagain include a lateral narrowing of a mid section M0 of the absorbentcore 310 to achieve a near hourglass shape. The longitudinal position ofthis narrow mid section M0 can be varied by displacing one of therectangular shaped core elements 311 laterally relative to the secondrectangular shaped core element 311. The inventive absorbent core 310also provides laterally wider upper or end regions E1, E2 that saddlethe mid section M0.

The overlay of two core elements 311 also forms a dual layered primaryabsorbent region 350 in the central region M0, which displays arelatively greater concentration of absorbent material. In thisembodiment, the primary absorbent region 350 extends all the way throughthe length of the end regions E1, E2.

FIGS. 4A and 4B depict an alternative absorbent core 410 that is afurther variation of the absorbent cores 210, 310 described above. Theabsorbent core 410 is produced from two non-rectangular, irregularlyshaped absorbent core elements 411 a, 411 b but, in this embodiment,each core element 411 has a parallelogram shape. These core elements 411a, 411 b are superimposed to produce a longitudinally and laterallysymmetric absorbent core 410 (symmetric about the longitudinal andlateral centerlines YY, XX). With this configuration, the longitudinalends 407 a, 407 b of the absorbent core 410 are defined by a singlestraight edge (spaced in parallel relation with the end edge of theabsorbent article (not shown)). Thus, the end or upper absorbent regionsE1, E2 of the core 410 are fairly uniform, and less likely to lump,impinge, pinch, or provide discomfort to the user. As with the absorbentcore of FIGS. 3A, 3B, the absorbent core 410 features a primaryabsorbent region 450 that can extend from the central region M0 into theupper absorbent regions E1, E2.

In yet another aspect of the present invention, an absorbent core 510 isachieved utilizing a pair of non-symmetrical absorbent core elements 511a, 511 b as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B. The core elements 511 a, 511 b areprovided in either rectangular or parallelogram shape and together forman absorbent core 510. In this embodiment, the two core elements 511 a,511 b are superimposed proximate mutually adjacent ends 517 a ratherthan centrally. This overlay produces a generally kite shaped primaryabsorbent region 550 suitable for incorporation into a disposableabsorbent article 50 such as that shown in FIG. 5B. Thus, the resultantabsorbent core 510 is characterized as having greater concentration ofabsorbent material at one end region E1 (also greater absorbentdensity), and a lower concentration but wider expanse of absorbentmaterial at an opposite end region E2, and a longitudinal absorbentprofile reflecting same. In between, the absorbent core 510 stillexhibits a narrow central region M0.

It is anticipated that an absorbent core of this type may be utilized ina baby diaper construction with the end region including the primaryabsorbent region being presented to the front of the wearer, therebypositioning a region of high absorbency to receive liquid exudates, anda wider absorbent region presented to the back of the wearer to providebetter containment of solid exudates. In addition, the two absorbentcore elements 511 a, 511 b may be arranged to present a v-shaped recessin the back of the diaper, thereby providing a containment pocket forfeces collection.

In alternative embodiments, the core elements may be modified withangled edges (as longitudinal ends). The edges of adjacent core elementscan cooperate to present a straight edge at the front or rear ends ofthe core, in a manner similar to that provided in the parallelogramshaped core elements 411 of FIGS. 4A, 4B.

FIGS. 6 through 9 illustrate alternative absorbent articles embodyingvarious aspects of the invention, including absorbent cores ofadvantageous designs. More particularly, these alternative embodimentsillustrate another mode of achieving advantageously shaped andadvantageously profiled absorbent cores, and disposable absorbentarticles with distinct absorbent profiles. In one aspect of the presentinvention, elastic materials are attached to, or otherwise incorporatedinto, the absorbent core element(s) to generate inventive absorbent coreconstructions.

Referring first to FIG. 6A, an absorbent core element 611 is initiallyprovided having a generally rectangular shape and a pair oflongitudinally spaced apart ends 617 a, 617 b. A suitable, tensionedelastomeric material 619 is selectively applied on or within theabsorbent core element 611 at various points or locations near the firstend 617 a. The elastomeric material 619 is oriented lengthwise in thelateral direction. Suitable elastomeric materials include, but are notlimited to, elastic strands, elastic films or elastomeric adhesives. Asshown in FIG. 6A, the elastomeric material 619 is preferably anelongated elastic element, such as an elastic strand. The appliedelastomeric materials are referred to simply as elastic elements orelastics. The selected attachment points preferably make for apredetermined pattern that describes multiple, laterally-oriented rowsof elastics 619 at even pitch, as shown in FIG. 6A. Accordingly, theapplied pre-tensioned elastics impart an elastic force in the generallylateral direction across the absorbent core element 611.

Preferably, the rows of elastics 619 are concentrated in a region 670proximate one longitudinal end 617 a of the core element 611 (i.e., asubstantially elasticated end region 670). While this longitudinal endregion 670 of the core element 611 is substantially incorporated withelastics 619, the opposite end region 672 is substantially clear ofelastomeric elements (i.e., non-elasticated). FIG. 6B depicts theabsorbent core element 611 in a relaxed state. Releasing the elastics619 from tension allows the elasticated region 670 to substantiallycontract and narrow (relative to other regions), and the rectangularshaped core element 611 to deform to near trapezoidal shape.

FIG. 6C depicts an absorbent article 60 employing a pair of theabsorbent core elements 611 and a resultant absorbent core 610 having anadvantageously hourglass shape and unique absorbent profile. Theabsorbent profile of the core element 611 reveals higher concentrationof absorbent material in the area of the elasticated core region 670 dueto the contracted core material. A first absorbent core element 611 a ispositioned over a second, substantially similar absorbent core element611 b to define a narrow, substantially elasticated central region M0and wider generally non-elasticated end regions E1, E2. As previousembodiments have demonstrated, the inventive configuration also providesa greater concentration of absorbent material (greater absorbentdensity) in the central region M0 of the absorbent core 60 than in theend regions E1, E2. The elasticated core region 670 defined in thisembodiment substantially corresponds with the primary absorbent region650 described in previous embodiments. The primary absorbent region 650is therefore, defined by both higher absorbent capacity per unit area asimparted by the multiple layers of absorbent material and highcontraction due to the high concentration of elastics 619.

The cross-sectional view of FIG. 6D reveals a central region M0 not onlycomposed of multiple core layers, but of layers of core material thatare more highly concentrated. The contraction of the core elements 611a, 611 b creates undulations in each core element 611 a, 611 b,producing yet another unique physical profile and unique absorbentprofile. Generally, the contraction of the core material produces a coreelement of greater average thickness. Further, the stacking of one coreelement over another core element with undulations produces a thickerand larger (in volume) absorbent core. The core includes voids or spacesS0 between the core elements 611 a, 611 b and between the top coreelement 611 a and the topsheet 602 (or A/D layer). The contracted corematerial also provides channels C1 that function as acquisition anddistribution channels for the absorbent core 610 and ridges P alongsidethe channels C1. The channels C1 help capture liquid exudates, forexample, and disperse the liquids over a greater area of core material.FIG. 6D also shows an additional, supplemental layer 639 of a non-wovenor core material below each of the core elements 611 a, 611 b. Thesupplemental layer 634 is provided to promote and provide adhesionbetween the core material and the elastics 619. In the cross-sectionalview of FIG. 6D, the supplemental layer 639 resides below the elastics619.

FIGS. 6E and 6F illustrate a variation of the inventive absorbent coreelements in FIGS. 6A to 6D (wherein like elements are indentified usinglike reference numerals). In one embodiment, the tension placed on theelastics 619′ during attachment to the absorbent core element 611′ isincreased. When the elastics 619′ are released, the core materialcontracts even more to produce an elasticated region 670′ having anoverall area that is reduced relative to that in the embodiment shown inFIGS. 6A to 6D. A differently shaped elasticated region 670′ may beproduced by selecting a different type of elastic or an elastic ofdifferent shape and length. A different shape, particularly thecurvature, may also be created by changing the tension denier of theelastic strand, changing the number of or the pitch between elastics,and/or by altering the position of the elastic(s) (e.g., varying thedistance between successive elastics). In this embodiment, the resultingabsorbent core 610′ has a narrower and more pronounced central regionM0. The central region M0 takes on a more curved or concave shape at thetransition between the elasticated region 670′ and the end regions E1,E2.

FIGS. 7A and 7B depict yet a further embodiment of the presentinvention, wherein an absorbent core is provided with a single coreelement 711. An alternatively shaped absorbent core or core element 711is produced via the selective placement and attachment of elasticelements 719 within the core material, beneath the core element, or ontop of the core element. By selective placement of elastic strand orother elastomeric materials, the relative width of the core element 711in these areas is reduced, as discussed above. FIG. 7A shows one suchembodiment of this core, with pre-tensioned, extended elastic strands719 secured to the absorbent core element 711 in a central elasticatedregion 770. When tension is released, the width of the absorbent coreelement 711 is substantially reduced as shown in FIG. 7B, creating anarrow elasticated material region M0.

FIGS. 7C and 7D depict yet another embodiment in which an absorbent coreelement 711 provides an absorbent core with an elasticated centralregion M0. Elastics 719 are applied to the core element 711 in the samelaterally extended fashion. The elastics in this embodiment are arrangedin rows of varying pitch, however, to achieve a specific shape.Preferably, the elastics 719 near the lateral centerline XX are spacedcloser together, while the elastics 719 farther away from center arespaced further apart. The area near the lateral centerline XX is,therefore, more elasticated than areas beyond. This results in anabsorbent core 711 having a more gradually narrowed or curved centralregion M0. By varying the pitch in this manner, the curved shaped of thenarrowed central region may be adjusted further.

FIGS. 8A through 8E illustrates yet another aspect of the invention, inwhich elastic elements 819 are introduced between, above, within orbelow multiple layers of absorbent core elements. FIG. 8A provides asimplified illustration of an absorbent core construction 810.Pre-tensioned elastic elements 819 are first disposed beneath a firstelongated absorbent core element 811 a and attached thereto. Theelastics 819 in this exemplary embodiment are centrally locatedrespective of the first core element 811 a, and are spaced at aconsistent pitch. The Figures show elastic strands employed as theelastics 819; however, elastic materials such as elastic film, elasticadhesive or elastic nonwovens may be used to achieve similar effects.

Referring also to the view in FIG. 8B, a second absorbent core element811 b is provided and then deployed on top of the first absorbent coreelement 811 a. The generally rectangular second absorbent element 811 bis cut appropriately shorter (and perhaps, reduced in width also) tocorrespond with the dimensions of the desired primary absorbent regionand/or desired absorbent profile. The elastics 819 and the dual layer ofabsorbent core elements 811 a, 811 b are bonded using any suitablebonding means, such as hot melt adhesives, ultrasonic bonding or throughthe fusing of thermoplastic fibers by heat. It is a desirable, but notnecessary, feature of this invention that at least one of the absorbentcore elements 811 (i.e., the top absorbent core element 811 b in FIGS.8A, 8B) is slit or cut at multiple locations (producing slits 873). Asshown in the Figures, the top absorbent core element 811 b preferablycontains multiple slits 873. The slits 873 are generally aligned in thelateral direction and, in this embodiment, staggered in rows of two andthree slits. The slits 873 preferably penetrate entirely through eachlayer of absorbent material, and in some embodiments may have a lengthof between 1-50 mm. It is envisaged that the invention also allows forfurther layers of slit or unslit absorbent material (core elements),elastic materials, fluid handling materials such as acquisition layersor surge layers, tissue layers, nonwoven layers or film.

Both FIGS. 8A and 8B depict the shape of the absorbent core 810 prior torelease of the elastics 819 from tension. FIG. 8C depicts the absorbentcore 810 after the elastics 819 are released. The width of the absorbentcore 810 in an elasticated central region M0 is substantially reduced,particularly more so around the lateral centerline XX where the elastics819 are gathered. Further, the laterally aligned slits 873 disposed onthe top core element 811 b are caused to open up and create voids 875within the core element 811 b. These voids 875 provide passages thatfacilitate flow of fluid into lower levels of the core construction(e.g., the first core element 811 a) of the absorbent core 810.

FIG. 8D depicts an alternative absorbent core 810′ that achieves aslightly different shape by arranging the rows of elastics 819 byarranging the elastics 819 at a higher pitch (than in FIGS. 8A, 8B).This arrangement produces a smoother curved central region M0. FIG. 8Eillustrates a variation of the core construction described in FIGS.8A-8C. In this alternative absorbent core 810″, the pre-tensionedelastic elements 819 are disposed between the two absorbent core layers811 a, 811 b (rather than below the bottom core element 811 a). Aspreviously discussed, it is possible for the elastics to be distributed,above, below, within or between any of the layers of the absorbent core.In some embodiments, the elastics are preferably positioned within orbetween layers to promote adhesion.

FIG. 9A illustrates yet a further aspect of the present invention. Theelasticized, accordion-shaped absorbent core construction 910 isproduced using two absorbent core elements 911 a, 911 b and elasticelements 919. Notably, the longitudinal centerline YY or longitudinaldirection of the absorbent article is identified as being perpendicularto the elastics 919. FIG. 9B is a lateral cross-sectional view ofdisposable absorbent article 90 utilizing the absorbent core 910 withthe cross-section aligned along a single laterally extending elastic919. A series (or layer) of pre-tensioned elastic elements 919 isdisposed between a first or bottom absorbent core element 911 a and asecond or top absorbent core element 911 b. The two layers of coreelements 911 a, 911 b and the pre-tensioned elastic elements 919 arebonded at predetermined locations along the lateral extent of thetensioned elastic 919. The bonding locations are preferably equallyspaced apart. In this specific embodiment, the bonding locationsactually make longitudinally extending bonding strips 930 that rungenerally, continuously across the rows of laterally oriented elastics919. Thus, between two elastics 919, the core elements 911 a, 911 b maybe bonded directly to one another. Between the bonding strips 930, thecore elements 911 a, 911 b remain un-bonded. Bonding may be achievedusing hotmelt adhesives, ultrasonic bonding, through the fusing ofthermoplastic materials by heat, or by any other suitable means.

The clearly defined bonding strips 930 are generally perpendicular tothe direction of elasticity (lateral direction in this embodiment).Accordingly, when tension on the elastics 919 is released, the coreelements 911 a, 911 b contract with the elastics 919 on both sides ofthe bonding strips 930. In the un-bonded areas between the bondingstrips, the un-restrained portions of the core element rise to createpeaks or ridges P1. As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, troughs Ti are alsoproduced between the ridges P1 and along or about the extent of thebonding strips 930. The resultant absorbent core 910 provides,therefore, an accordion like structure defined by a regular series ofpeaks P1 and troughs Ti. As further shown in FIG. 9B, theaccordion-shaped core 910 features an abundance of laterally extendingvoids or spaces S0 between the core elements 911 a, 911 b and betweentop core element 911 b and the topsheet 902.

An important benefit of the resultant structure is that the inventivecore construction achieves loftiness (i.e., which promotes comfort andsofter regions) and void space out of an otherwise flat core and withoutsignificant void volume. The added void volume serves to provide atemporary fluid holding and fluid transporting space. This spaceprovides the fluid a place within the confines of the diaper totemporarily reside during the few seconds it takes for thesuperabsorbent to activate and permanently lock up the fluid. Thetroughs Ti and the voids or spaces S0 above the troughs Ti channels, andfacilitate dispersal of fluid exudates.

FIGS. 10A-10H depict absorbent core constructions embodying furtheraspects of the present invention. These absorbent core constructionsprovide ergonomically-shaped cores that enhance the fit and sealingcapabilities of the resultant disposable absorbent article. Inparticular, the design of the absorbent core constructions target anabsorbent core having a nearly hourglass shape and an advantageousabsorbent profile. Regarding the absorbent profile, the inventiveabsorbent core constructions in these Figures illustrate means fordistributing absorbent core material in an optimized, non-uniform mannerin and along the central body of the disposable absorbent article.

Referring first to FIGS. 10A and 10B, a single layered core element 1011is provided in a generally rectangular, elongated shape, which can bedescribed as having longitudinal and lateral centerlines YY, XX, firstand second longitudinal ends 1017 a, 1017 b, and right and left sidemargins 1006 a,1006 b, respectively. In accordance with the invention,the core element 1011 is marked by a pair of generally lateral cuts orslits 1008 that originate at and extend from, the right margin 1006 a.The slits 1008 preferably terminate proximate the left margin 1006 b butare spaced sufficiently therefrom to prevent compromising the structuralsoundness of the core element 1011. Each of the slits 1008 is preferablyspaced the same distance from the proximate longitudinal ends 1017 a,1017 b. The slits 1008 help define the three sections of the coreelement 1011: a top section or flap 1003; a middle or mid section 1004;and a bottom section or flap 1005.

In one aspect, each of the slits 1008 is sufficiently long to allow theadjacent flap 1003, 1005 to bend and pivot away from the mid section1004, as illustrated in FIG. 10B. The top and bottom flaps 1003, 1005are preferably displaced in this manner and, at an acute angle from themidsection 1004. As necessary, the width and shape of the slits 1008 maybe enlarged and/or the left side margin 1006 b provided with cut-outsproximate the slit 1008 to accommodate the rotation of the flaps 1003,1005 and compression of the area along the side margin 1006 b.

Now turning to FIGS. 10C and 10D, an advantageous absorbent coreconstruction 1010 is created through cooperation of two substantiallysimilar core elements 1011 of the type depicted in FIGS. 10A-10B. Forpurposes of the description, one core element 1011 may be referred to asa first or right core element 1011 a, and the other core element 1011 bas a second or left core element 1011 b. The two core elements 1011 aresubstantially similar and the components of the two core elements 1011are referred to using like reference numerals. The two core elements1011 a, 1011 b are placed adjacent one another in a manner whereby theslits 1008 are laterally aligned and substantially co-incident. The coreelements 1011 a, 1011 b are preferably spaced the same distance from alongitudinal centerline YY. With this placement, each of flaps 1003 or1005 oppose a corresponding flap 1003 or 1005 and is displaced androtated away from the longitudinal centerline YY. This creates an opensection or recess 1026 above the slits 1008. There is some overlapbetween each opposing pair of flaps 1003, 1005, however, and, in thecontext of the resultant absorbent core 1010, each pair of opposingflaps 1003, 1005 cooperate to form one of two flared and widened endregion E1, E2.

As also shown in FIG. 10C, midsections 1004 substantially overlap andmutually cooperate to create a highly absorbent central region M0 of theresultant absorbent core 1010. Preferably, the central region M0 isaligned symmetrically about both the longitudinal centerline YY. As alsoshown in FIG. 10C, the central region M0 is substantially narrower thanthe end regions E1, E2. It is an advantageous feature of this embodimentthat the transversely displaced pairs of flaps 1003, 1005 are displacedoutwardly, and slightly rotated, to help form the generally hour glassshape of the absorbent core 1010. In yet another advantageous aspect,the flaps 1003, 1005, and the slits 1008 that help to define thesesections, can readily interrelate and interlock to facilitatecooperation between the core elements 1011. This interlocking featurehelps to stabilize the resultant absorbent core 1010 and to positivelyplace and shape the end regions E1, E2 according to the desired design.In specific applications, this interlocking relationship helps to guardagainst any bias in the end regions E1, E2 to return toward thelongitudinal centerline YY.

FIG. 10D illustrates an optional and further configuration utilizing thecore elements 1011 in FIGS. 10A-10C, wherein like elements are againreferred to using like reference numerals (as previously used in respectto FIGS. 10A-10C). This further configuration addresses possibleshortfalls in the configuration previously described. Referring to FIG.10D, a resultant absorbent construction 1010 a utilizes a third coreelement 1011 c. Generally, the third core element 1011 c provides asubstantially rectangular layer of absorbent material to add to thecentral region M0. The third core element 1011 c in this embodiment ismade longer than the mid-sections 1004, so as to cover any undesirableareas of low or substantially nil absorbency. In particular, the thirdcore element 1011 c is shaped and positioned to extend over thepreviously open recess 1026 in FIG. 10C (see FIG. 10C), thereby coveringthe recess 1026.

The third core element 1011 c also enlarges the primary absorbent region1050 of the absorbent core, increasing its absorbent capacity. It isnoted, however, that in other embodiments, it may not be desirable toincrease the thickness or absorbency of the primary absorbent region (tominimize cost and manufacturing complexity, for example). In such cases,the thicknesses of the third core element and the other core elementsmay be adjusted to minimize the overall thickness of the central region.In the illustration of FIG. 10D, this third core element 1011 c is shownpositioned between the other two core elements 1011 a, 1011 b. Infurther embodiments, the third core element 1011 c may be positionedabove or below both core elements 1011 (as the top-most or thebottom-most layer of absorbent material).

FIGS. 10E and 10F illustrate yet a further configuration and variationof the invention, wherein first and second absorbent core elements 1011a, 1011 b provide the components of yet another resultant absorbent core1010 b (see FIG. 10F). This resultant absorbent core 1010 b features analternative means for increasing the absorbency in regions of nil andsubstantially nil absorbency. Each of the core elements 1011 a, 1011 bis again provided with a pair of lateral slits 1008 that help define atop flap 1003, a midsection 1004, and a bottom flap 1005. In thisembodiment, the top and bottom flaps 1003, 1005 are not substantiallyidentical. For the first core element 1011 a, the top flap 1005 isshorter than the bottom flap 1003. Thus, the top flap 1005 also providesa smaller area than the bottom flap 1003. In contrast, the second coreelement 1011 b is provided with a top flap 1005 that is longer and thuslarger, than the bottom flap 1003. Now referring to FIG. 10F, coreelements 1011 a, 1011 b are placed in a mutually cooperativerelationship to form the desired absorbent core 1010 b. As in otherembodiments, this cooperative relationship provides a substantiallydual-layered, narrow central region M0. The combination of core elements1011 a, 1011 b also forms end regions E1, E2. As best illustrated inFIG. 10F, the overlapping of the various regions of the two coreelements 1011, 1011 b tend to cover the voids or regions of previouslylow or nil absorbency (see, e.g., recesses 1026 in FIGS. 10A, 10B).These regions of previously low or nil absorbency are reduced oreliminated by extending the longer flaps closer to center andoverlapping the longer flap with the shorter opposing flap.

FIG. 10G illustrates yet another alternative configuration for anabsorbent core 1010 c in accordance with this embodiment of the presentinvention. FIG. 10G illustrates an alternative cooperation of two coreelements 1011 a, 1011 b that achieves a particularly desirableinterlocking relationship. The lateral slits 1008 of the core elements1011 a, 1011 b, as well as the top and bottom flaps 1005, 1003,positively interlock the core elements 1011 a, 1011 b. As shown in FIG.10G, the two flaps 1003, 1005 of the first core element 1011 a areplaced beneath the corresponding flaps 1003, 1005 of the second coreelement 1011 b, while the mid section 1004 of the first core element1011 a is placed above or atop the corresponding mid section 1004 of thesecond core element 1011 b. This positive interlocking relationshipbetween the two core elements 1011 a, 1011 b aids stabilization of theresultant absorbent core 1010, and also, reduces or eliminates the useof adhesive to secure the core elements 1011 a, 1011 b together.

FIG. 11A illustrates yet another embodiment of the present invention. Inparticular, FIG. 11A depicts an absorbent core 1110 that utilizes a pairof core elements 1111 a, 1111 b and exhibits a generally hourglassshape. The absorbent core 1110 features a narrow central region M0 thatfeatures a multi-layered primary absorbent region 1150 formed by mutualoverlapping of the two core elements 1111 a, 1111 b. For purposes ofdescription, the core elements 1111 a are referred to as havinglongitudinal ends 1117 a, 1117 b, respectively and right and left sidemargins 1106 a, 1106 b, respectively. The absorbent core 1110 alsoprovides substantially identical end regions E1, E2, both spacedlongitudinally from the central region M0. The end regions E1, E2 have alateral width that is greater than that of the narrower central regionM0 of the absorbent core 1110. As with previous embodiments, the primaryabsorbent region 1150 is positioned about and extends from this narrowcentral region M0 of the absorbent core 1110. The resultant absorbentcore 1110 exhibits, therefore, a nearly hour glass shape, having widerupper or end regions E1, E2 and a narrow central region M0. As explainedin respect to previous embodiments, this nearly hour glass shapeimproves the fit and comfort of the disposable absorbent article, whileenhancing the sealing capabilities of the article. It is noted that thecore elements 1111 a, 1111 b utilized in this absorbent core 1110 have amore curved or S-shaped form. The core elements 1111 a, 1111 b are alsoslender than core elements of previously described embodiments. Theresultant absorbent core 1110 has, therefore, a more aestheticallypleasing appearance and conforms well with the shape and configurationof the disposable absorbent article, before use and while in use.

In yet another aspect, the core elements 1111 a, 1111 b utilizeselastics 1119 which are situated at select locations. Selective andstrategic placement of the elastics 1119 achieves the curved and S-shapeform of each core element 1111 a, 1111 b. Notably, the elastics 1119 areoriented along a generally longitudinal direction at application, andare provided at a length generally short relative to the length of eachcore element 1111 a, 1111 b. As will be explained in more detail below,the longitudinally oriented elastic 1119 serves to contract and curve(concave) the surrounding areas, which coincides with a localizedportion of the near side margins 1106 of the core element 1111. As aresult, each elastic strand 1119 tends to make the longitudinal sidemargin 1106 of the core element 1111 concave about a point at or nearthe middle of the elastic 1119. To better illustrate how the curvedshape of the core element 1119 is achieved, further reference is made toFIGS. 11B-11D, each of which illustrates a stage in the manufacture orassembly of the absorbent core 1110.

The source of the absorbent material is presented as an elongatedcontinuous web 1180 of absorbent material (or core elements). Astretched elastic 1119 (i.e., in tension) is applied near the sidemargin 1106 a or 1106 b of the web and is preferably laminatedthereabout to the absorbent material. Depending on the specificapplication, the length of the stretched elastic 1119 is typically asignificant proportion of the length of the core. Each elastic 1119 isoriented along the longitudinal direction and spaced a short lateraldistance from the near side margin 1106. For the illustrated embodiment,this lateral spacing is only about 1/10^(th) the width of the web 1180.Furthermore, the elastics 1119 are preferably intermittently appliedalong each side margin 1106 a, 1106 b. The longitudinal spacing elastics1119 is preferably slightly larger than the stretched width of theindividual elastics 1119, although it will be apparent to one skilled inthe relevant art that the longitudinal spacing and the length of theelastics chosen will depend primarily on the size and degree ofcurvature targeted for the resultant absorbent core and absorbentarticle.

In the manner described, a series of elastics 1119 is applied near eachside margin 1106 of the web 1180 of absorbent material. To achieve theconfiguration illustrated in FIG. 11A, the series of elastics 1119 alongone side margin 1106 a is preferably substantially identical to theother series or set along the other side margin 1106 b. The intermittentperiod of the two series are, however, offset at one-half periodintervals or 180 degrees. As shown in FIG. 11B, this means that alongeach lateral line across the web 1180 whereon an elastic 1119 is appliedalong one side margin 1106, that elastic 1119 is the only elasticapplied. The area along the opposite side margin 1106 is clear andnon-elasticized. Along the longitudinal direction of the web 1180,elastics 1119 are therefore applied alternately between one side margin1106 a and the other side margin 1106 b. Accordingly, along thelongitudinal direction, the web 1180 of absorbent material may bedescribed as being alternately elasticized between one side margin 1106a and then the other side margin 1106 b.

After tension is removed from the elastics 1119, the regions around eachelastic 1119 contract and the elastics 1119 draw the absorbent materialinto a gathered material as shown in FIG. 11C. Due to the contraction ofthe tensioned elastics 1119 and the distribution pattern of the elastics1119 in alternate side regions, the absorbent web 1180 takes on acontinuous S-shaped configuration. This S-shaped configuration providesalternate concave and convex curves. In this configuration, the elastics1119 are present on the short sides or concave portions and thenon-elasticized regions are found on the longer side or convex portions.

FIG. 11D depicts a continuous, dual web 1180′ of absorbent core elementconsisting of two of the absorbent core webs 1180′ described in FIGS.11B and 11C. The web 1180′ of absorbent core element is formed byoverlapping a first web 1180 a of continuous sinuosoidal-shaped (or“S-shaped”) absorbent material with a second web 1180 b of continuousS-shaped absorbent material. The two absorbent webs 1180 a, 1180 b arearranged in a non-parallel, opposed configuration such that the elastics1119 are laterally aligned. The result is that the elastics 1119 on thetwo webs 1180 a, 1180 b alternate between being both on the inside sidemargins 1106 of the two absorbent webs 1180 and being both on theoutside side margin 1106 of the two absorbent webs 1180. The resultantweb 1180 also has alternating wide and narrow regions. This resultantweb 1180 is then divided into individual absorbent cores 1110 by cuttingthrough the transverse width of the core as indicated by lateral line1130. The cuts are preferably made at the widest lateral portions whichcoincide where the elastics 1119 are both located along adjacent sidemargins 1106. These wide lateral portions, wherein the elastics 1119 areon adjacent margins 1106, provide the end regions E1, E2 of theresultant absorbent core 1110 (see FIG. 11A). The narrow lateralportions between these lateral wide portions, which overlap, become thenarrow central region M0 of the resultant absorbent core 1110. Thissubstantial overlap of webs 1180 in this narrow lateral portion alsoprovides the primary absorbent region 1150 of the resultant advantageousabsorbent core 1110.

FIG. 11E illustrates an alternate elongated web 1180 c of absorbent coreelement. In this embodiment, slits 1133 are introduced to the web 1180of absorbent core material to facilitate bending and flexibility of theindividual core elements. The slits 1133 are preferably applied asgroups of elastic, each group disposed primarily in the non-elasticizedregion of the core web 1180 (where the side margin 1106 extend and curveinward upon release of the elastics 1119). FIGS. 11E and 11F illustratethe web 1180 with multiple slits 1133 oriented in the generally lateralor transverse direction. The slits 1133 sever the non-elasticizedportion of the near side margin 1106 of the web 1180. FIG. 11E depictsthe web 1180 of absorbent material with the elastic elements 1119 undertension. When tension is released, the contraction of the elasticelements 1119 causes the surrounding region near the side margins 1106to also contract. Meanwhile, the slits 1133 in the non-elasticizedregions allow these regions near the side margin 1106 to extend morereadily and provides a smoother curve. In certain embodiments, thelength of the slits 1133 are less than ½ or ⅓ the lateral width of theweb 1180. As a result, the web 1180 of absorbent material adopts acontinuous S-shaped configuration, which is then used as a source webfor a generally hourglass-shaped, elasticized core (see e.g., FIG. 11A).

FIG. 12A illustrates yet another absorbent core 1220 in accordance witha further embodiment of the present invention. The inventive absorbentcore 1220 features a narrow central region M0 and broader end regionsE1, E2 and thus, provides yet another generally hourglass shapedabsorbent core 1220. Notably, this configuration of an hourglass shapedcore may be achieved with a single core element. In one of the simplerforms, the inventive absorbent core 1220 is formed by “twisting” a coreelement having the typical, generally rectangular, trapezoidal orparallelogram shape. More specifically, one end 1217 a of the coreelement is turned or twisted clockwise (e.g., the bottom end 1217 a inFIG. 12) and the other end 1217 b is turned or “twisted”counter-clockwise. A twisted, narrow region of the core element isproduced and provides the central region M0 of the absorbent core 1220.The wider, open ends of the twist are disposed as the end regions E1, E2of the absorbent core 1220.

FIGS. 13A-13B illustrates a method of making another “twisted” absorbentcore 1310 or absorbent core element according to the present invention.Referring to FIG. 13A, an absorbent core element 1311 is first providedin a preferably generally parallelogram shape. The core element 1311 maybe described as having a bottom end 1317 a, a top end 1317 b, a leftside margin 1306 a, a right side margin 1306 b, and four corners V1, V2,V3, V4 each defined by the intersection of one of the ends 1317 and oneof the side margins 1306. For purposes of this description, the coreelement 1311 is further described as having a pair of spaced apart twistaxes ZZ and a longitudinal centerline YY preferably positioned generallyparallel with and equidistantly between the twist axes ZZ. Each of twistaxes ZZ is, therefore, laterally offset from the longitudinal centerlineYY of the core element 1311. The twist axes ZZ are also preferablyspaced laterally from opposing corners of the parallelogram shaped coreelement 1211.

As shown in FIG. 13A, the bottom left corner V1 is twisted in thecounter clockwise direction about its twist axes ZZ while top rightcorner V3 is twisted in the clockwise direction about its twist axis ZZ.Referring to FIG. 13B, the resultant twisted absorbent core element 1311has a somewhat distorted hourglass shape. Nevertheless, the resultantcore element 1311 or resultant absorbent core construction providescertain features targeted by the invention. The absorbent core element1311 has a narrow central region M0, wider end regions E1, E2, and amulti-layered primary absorbent region 1350 that imparts higherabsorbency at specific target locations. The core element may bedescribed further as having top and bottom V-shaped flaps W1, W2(respectively) that extend laterally from the rest of the absorbent coreelement 1311.

Alternatively, the core element 1311 of FIG. 13B may be combined withanother core element 1311 having substantially similar structure toproduce an advanced embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 13C and13D illustrate the making of an improved absorbent core construction1310 by combining two such absorbent core elements 1311. A top coreelement 1311 b is positioned above a bottom core element 1311 a, suchthat one is turned over relative to the other. Essentially, the coreelement 1311 in FIG. 13C is rotated 180° to the right and is presentedas bottom core element 1311 a in FIG. 13C. The flaps W1, W2 (of the coreelements 1311) that are directly one atop the other extends, therefore,in opposite lateral directions, as shown in FIG. 13C. The first coreelement 1311 b is then set upon (overlaid) the second core element 1311a. FIG. 13D depicts a resultant absorbent core 1310 that exhibits a morepronounced hourglass shape. The absorbent core also provides a moredefined, and wider, top and bottom end regions E1, E2.

FIG. 13E illustrates the relative distribution of absorbent material inthe core elements 13 a, 13 b utilized in the absorbent core 1310, priorto joining the two core elements 1311 a, 1311 b. The lighter areasrepresent regions provided by one layer of absorbent material while thedarker areas represent regions with two layers of absorbent material,and thus, relatively higher absorbency. FIG. 13F illustrates therelative distribution of absorbent material in the resultant absorbentcore 1310, which is comprised of the two core elements 1311 a, 1311 b.The illustration reflects an absorbent core 1310 with a multi-facetedabsorbent profile along various directions (including along thelongitudinal centerline). This resultant absorbent core 1310 featuresregions with single (A1), double (A2), triple (A3) and quadruple (A4)stacked layers of absorbent core material. The resultant absorbentprofile reflects a highly absorbent region that is centered about theintersection of the longitudinal and lateral centerlines (YY, XXrespectively), which provides the mid section M0. This highly absorbentregion will correspond with, and provide sufficient coverage for, thecrotch region of the absorbent article. The resultant absorbent core1310 further provides broadened end regions E1, E2 that also featurevarying absorbency, including broad regions extending from the midsection M0 with triple layers (A3) of absorbent material. One uniquebenefit of this multi-faceted design is the creation of channels withlesser amounts of absorbent material (fewer layers of core). Forexample, FIG. 13F shows an X-shaped channel C1 between the four regionsA4. These channels C1 help to distribute fluid to other regions of thecore 1310, thereby utilizing absorbent materials in other areas of thecore 1310.

The resultant absorbent core 1310 provides certain targeted advantagesand benefits. Firstly, the resultant absorbent core 1310 provides abetter, more form fitting, fit for the wearer of the absorbent articleas well as improved leakage prevention performance by providingabsorbent material over a greater area of the article in the waistregions. Secondly the resultant absorbent structure provides a profiled,distribution of absorbent material throughout the article. A greateramount of absorbent material is provided in the crotch region of thearticle where receipt of fluids is expected. Concentrations of absorbentmaterial, albeit lesser amounts, are also provided around the waistregions and side margins of the absorbent article. These absorbentregions perform an enhanced leak prevention function.

FIGS. 14A-14C provide a further embodiment of the present invention,featuring an enhanced absorbent core construction and absorbencyprofile. FIG. 14C depicts, more specifically, a dual layered coreconstruction 1410. Initially, an absorbent element 1411 a is presentedhaving a generally rectangular configuration. The core element 1411 a ofthis embodiment is provided with at least two laterally extending slits1421 preferably positioned near or about the lateral centerline XX ofthe core element 1411 a (and ultimately of the resultant absorbent coreconstruction 1410). The laterally extending slits 1411 are directedinwardly from opposite side margins 1413 of the generally rectangularcore element 1411 a. In this embodiment, each of the lateral slits 1421extends inwardly about ⅕^(th) the lateral width of the core element 1411a. Four imaginary folding lines 1422 are also presented in the generallyrectangular core element 1411 a. The folding lines 1422 also runinwardly from the side margins 1413 and downwardly toward the lateralcenterline XX, thereby intersecting the end of the lateral slits 1421,as shown in FIG. 14A.

The imaginary folding lines 1422 may be created by a number of suitablemeans or methods, including initially pre-stressing the absorbent coreelement 1411 a or stamping the absorbent core element 1411 a prior tothe folding steps. In a subprocess of making the absorbent coreconstruction 1410, an urging force is applied to the side margins 1413of the core element 1411 a above and below the location of the lateralslits 1421. This force dislodges and/or urges a pair of resultant flaps1423 inwardly about the imaginary folding lines 1422, as shown in FIG.14B. The urging force may be provided by air jet mechanisms that blow orapply pressure on the side margins 1413 proximate the imaginary foldinglines 1422. In alternative processes, a mechanical means, such as apiston, may be employed.

In any event, a pair of inwardly folding flaps 1423 is provided alongeach side margin 1413 above and below the former location of the lateralslit 1421. Turning to FIG. 14C, a second core element 1411 b may beprovided centrally atop the first core element 1411 a, and underneathand inwardly from the four flaps 1423. The second core element 1411 bmay be applied on the first core element 1411 a prior to the urging orfolding steps (applied to the flaps 1423). Alternatively, the secondcore element 1411 b may be inserted under the flaps 1423 after thefolding operation. The second core element may also be applied over thetop of the first or bottom core element and its folded side flaps, suchthat the folded flaps is placed between upper and lower core elements.

The result of either case is a generally hourglass-shaped absorbent coreconstruction 1410, as shown by FIG. 14C. The absorbent core construction1410 features an enhanced central absorbent region 1450, as provided bythe second core element 1411 b. The flaps 1423 also provide enhancedabsorbency to the core construction 1410 (as the flaps 1423 are alsomade of highly absorbent material). Moreover, the absorbent flaps 1423provide an enhanced absorbent region that functions as a leakage dam orsealant along the edges or side margins of the central region 1450.Additionally, as illustrated by FIG. 14C, the absorbent flaps 1423 helpto secure the second core element 1411 b centrally and atop the firstcore element 1411 a. Specifically, the absorbent flaps 1423 wrap aroundthe longitudinal edges of the second core element 1411 b. In furtherembodiments, the second core element 1411 b may be provided on top ofthe flaps 1423 of the first absorbent core element 1411 a, or beneaththe first core element 1411 a. In either further embodiment, the secondcore element 1411 b still provides enhanced absorbency in a centralregion 1450 of the hourglass-shaped absorbent core construction 1410.

FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate how a superimposed core construction 1510such as that provided in FIG. 2A may be generated in an efficient andadvantageous manner. As described previously, the core consists of twocore elements A, B having a trapezoidal shape. The selection of atrapezoidal shape allows the core elements A, B to be derived from thesame material source. Preferably, a web 1580 of core material, as shownin FIG. 15A, is presented as the core material source. Alternatingtrapezoidal core elements A and B are stamped on or cut from the web1580. The two trapezoid shapes or blanks A, B are identical except thatone is oriented 180 degrees from the other. Alternating inclined cuts1581 may be made across the web 1580 (edge to edge) to produce and shapethe two adjacent core elements A, B without waste of the web material.Each inclined cut 1581 is common to both blanks A, B and simultaneouslydefines a side of both trapezoid core elements A, B.

As shown in FIGS. 15B-C, the two trapezoid blanks A, B are then overlaidto form the desired core construction. In further embodiments, a thirdcore element C, which, in this case, has a rectangular shape, isdisposed about the center of the core construction 1510 and overlaysboth trapezoid core elements A, B. The overlay of core elements A, B, Cdefines an even more highly absorbent central region.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other coreelements shapes may be selected which allow adjacent blanks to be cutwithout waste material. The adjacent blanks will preferably be of anirregular shape (as required by various embodiments of the invention)and provided as mirror images of one another. With many irregularshapes, the blanks on the web will be oriented 180 degrees apart. In oneapplication, instead of inclined sides or cuts, the cuts are curved andthe core elements have curved outlines. In one particular embodiment,the core elements are preferably S-shaped and the blanks on the web mayeither be symmetrical along the longitudinal centerline or the blanksare oriented 180 degrees apart. Again, each cut or side is common toboth blanks and defines corresponding sides of the adjacent blanks orcore elements.

FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate an exemplary method of laterallyelasticizing a core construction 1610 similar to that of FIG. 6B. Thisparticular method utilizes a rectangular, laterally elasticizedcomposite 1619 such as that described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,361,246 and7,462,172 (both of which are hereby incorporated by reference for allpurposes, including being made a part of the present disclosure) (whichpatents have one or more inventors common to the present invention (s)).As described in these patent documents, the elastic composite 1619 maycomprise at least one nonwoven sheet or other substrate and a pluralityof lateral elastics thereon. In some embodiments, the elastic compositeconsists of elastics sandwiched between two nonwoven layers, but it isfurther contemplated that, for present purposes, only one substratelayer may be required. The elastic composite 1619 is applied, intension, on a core element 1611 preferably centrally using suitableadhesives or the like. Once released form tension, the elastic composite1619 contracts laterally, thereby also contracting the core element 1611attached beneath the elastic composite 1619. This contraction creates anarrowed central region M0 of the resulting core construction 1610, asdesired.

In respect to the embodiments of FIGS. 11A-11F, it is furthercontemplated that the longitudinally-directed elastics 1119 may beapplied to the web 1180 of core element as one continuous strand.Sections of the continuous strand may be selectively severed to leavethe intermittent series of elastics 1119 on the web 1180. Alternatively,the continuous strand may be adhered to the core material in thetensioned state (e.g., using glue or other suitable adhesive), thenselect portions of the continuous elastic strand are de-activated.Released from tension, the once-continuous elastic strand generates theintermittent series of contracted elastics 1119 and thus, the desiredcurved side margins (of the web 1180 and the resultant core elements1111 a, 1111 b). In respect to the embodiments of FIGS. 11E and 11F, theslits 1133 may be made immediately after application of the continuousstrand onto the web 1180.

The foregoing descriptions of various embodiments and aspects of thepresent invention have been presented for purposes of illustration anddescription. These descriptions are not intended to limit the inventionto the various absorbent cores or articles, and processes disclosed.Various aspects of the invention are intended for applications otherthan diapers and training pants. The core constructions described mayalso be incorporated into or with other garments, textiles, fabrics, andthe like, or combinations thereof. The core constructions described mayalso incorporate different components. These and other variations of theinvention will become apparent to one generally skilled in the relevantconsumer product art provided with the present disclosure. Consequently,variations and modifications commensurate with the above teachings, andthe skill and knowledge of the relevant art, are within the scope of thepresent invention. The embodiments described and illustrated herein arefurther intended to explain the best modes for practicing the invention,and to enable others skilled in the art to utilize the invention andother embodiments and with various modifications required by theparticular applications or uses of the present invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A disposable absorbent article comprising: acentral body defining a first waist end region including a first endedge, a second waist end region spaced longitudinally from the firstwaist end region and including a second end edge, and a crotch regionpositioned therebetween; and an absorbent core situated between the endedges, the absorbent core including a first absorbent core elementincluding superabsorbent particles and extending laterally across thecrotch region and a plurality of elastics that are generally laterallyextended, mutually longitudinally spaced apart and attached to the firstabsorbent core element such that the first absorbent core element islaterally contracted in a narrowed region of the first core elementabout the plurality of elastics; and wherein the absorbent core has ashape that includes a pair of end regions that are non-elasticized andhave a lateral width wider than a lateral width of the narrowed region;wherein each of said plurality of elastics extends laterally from alocation proximate one side margin of the first core element in thenarrowed region to a location proximate an opposite side margin of thefirst core element in the narrowed region; and wherein the plurality ofelastics are disposed together in one concentration of elastics in acentral region of the first core element between the end regions andwithin the side margins of the first core element, and wherein theelastics are arranged in longitudinally spaced apart rows; and whereinthe absorbent core further includes a second core element, saidplurality of elastics being disposed between said first core element andsaid second core element.
 2. The disposable absorbent article of claim1, wherein the plurality of elastics are longitudinally spaced apart andextend laterally between longitudinally extending side margins of theabsorbent core at the crotch region.
 3. The disposable absorbent articleof claim 2, wherein ends of the plurality of elastics are positionedproximate the side margins to provide a concavity in each said sidemargin proximate the plurality of elastics.
 4. The disposable absorbentarticle of claim 1, wherein the absorbent core includes the first coreelement formed from materials imparting absorbent properties and thesecond core element formed from materials imparting absorbentproperties, the second core element superimposing the first core elementto form a multi-layer primary absorbent region of the absorbent corehaving an absorption capacity per unit area increased from an absorptioncapacity per unit area in the end regions of the absorbent core; andwherein the multi-layer absorbent region substantially coincides withthe narrowed region; and wherein each of the first and second coreelements includes a plurality of elastics incorporated therewith to forma narrowed region of the respective core element; and wherein thenarrowed regions of the core elements are positioned adjacent oneanother to substantially form the narrowed region of the absorbent core.5. The disposable absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the plurality ofelastics are placed within said absorbent core.
 6. The disposableabsorbent article of claim 1, wherein the plurality of elastics areplaced, pre-tensioned, on a planar absorbent surface of the absorbentcore.
 7. The disposable absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the rowsof said elastics are arranged in the narrowed region in rows of varyingpitch to define a curved shape to said narrowed region of the first coreelement.
 8. The disposable absorbent article of claim 1, wherein therows of said elastics are arranged in the narrowed region in rows ofvarying tension to provide a curved shape to said narrowed region. 9.The disposable absorbent article of claim 1, wherein rows of saidelastics are arranged in the narrowed region in rows of varying shape toachieve the shape of the absorbent core.
 10. The disposable absorbentarticle of claim 1, wherein the rows of said elastics are arranged inthe narrowed region in rows of varying type to achieve the shape of theabsorbent core.
 11. The disposable absorbent article of claim 1, whereinthe rows of said elastics are arranged in rows of varying length toachieve the shape of the absorbent core.
 12. A disposable absorbentarticle comprising: a central body defining a first waist end regionincluding a first end edge, a second waist end region spacedlongitudinally from the first waist end region and including a secondend edge, and a crotch region positioned therebetween; and an absorbentcore situated between the end edges, the absorbent core including afirst absorbent core element including superabsorbent particles andextending laterally across the crotch region and a plurality of elasticsthat are generally laterally extended, mutually longitudinally spacedapart and attached to the first absorbent core element such that thefirst absorbent core element is laterally contracted in a narrowedregion of the first core element about the plurality of elastics; andwherein the absorbent core has a shape that includes a pair of endregions that are non-elasticized and have a lateral width wider than alateral width of the narrowed region; and wherein the absorbent coreincludes the first core element formed from materials impartingabsorbent properties and a second core element formed from materialsimparting absorbent properties, the second core element superimposingthe first core element to form a multi-layer primary absorbent region ofthe absorbent core having an absorption capacity per unit area increasedfrom an absorption capacity per unit area in the end regions of theabsorbent core; and wherein the multi-layer absorbent regionsubstantially coincides with the narrowed region of the absorbent core;and wherein each of the first and second core elements includes aplurality of elastics incorporated therewith to form a narrowed regionof the respective core element; and wherein the narrowed regions of thecore elements are positioned adjacent one another to substantially formthe narrowed region of the absorbent core wherein each of said pluralityof elastics extends laterally from a location proximate one side marginof the respective core element in the narrowed region thereof to alocation proximate an opposite side margin of the respective coreelement in the narrowed region thereof; and wherein each of saidplurality of elastics are disposed together in one concentration ofelastics in a central region of the respective core element between theend regions and within the side margins of the respective core element,and wherein the elastics are arranged in longitudinally spaced apartrows; and wherein the narrowed regions of the core elements are situatedto provide a laterally contracted primary absorbent region; and whereinthe second core element includes slits that provide voids penetratingthrough the second core element in the substantially laterallycontracted primary absorbent region.
 13. A disposable absorbent articlecomprising: a central body defining a first waist end region including afirst end edge, a second waist end region spaced longitudinally from thefirst waist end region and including a second end edge, and a crotchregion positioned therebetween; and an absorbent core situated betweenthe end edges, the absorbent core including a first absorbent coreelement including superabsorbent particles and extending laterallyacross the crotch region and a plurality of elastics that are generallylaterally extended, mutually longitudinally spaced apart and attached tothe first absorbent core element such that the first absorbent coreelement is laterally contracted in a narrowed region of the first coreelement about the plurality of elastics; and wherein the absorbent corehas a shape that includes a pair of end regions that are non-elasticizedand have a lateral width wider than a lateral width of the narrowedregion; wherein each of said plurality of elastics extends laterallyfrom a location proximate one side margin of the first core element inthe narrowed region to a location proximate an opposite side margin ofthe first core element in the narrowed region; and wherein the pluralityof elastics are disposed together in one concentration of elastics in acentral region of the first core element between the end regions andwithin the side margins of the first core element, and wherein theelastics are arranged in longitudinally spaced apart rows; and whereinsaid plurality of elastics are adhered to the first absorbent coreelement at a plurality of adhesion locations positioned and spaced apartalong the length of each elastic of said plurality of said elasticsadhered to the first absorbent core element to form a plurality oflaterally spaced apart ridges in the first core element in betweenadhesion locations.
 14. The disposable absorbent article of claim 13,wherein the adhesion locations associated with each elastic arelongitudinally aligned with adhesion locations on others of theplurality of elastics to form a plurality of longitudinally aligned andlaterally spaced apart sets of adhesion locations that form ridges thatare longitudinally extended and spaced laterally between sets ofadhesion locations.
 15. The disposable absorbent article of claim 14,wherein the ridges are spaced apart to form a plurality oflongitudinally extending void spaces below said ridges and a pluralityof channels between laterally spaced apart ridges.
 16. The disposableabsorbent article of claim 14, wherein the absorbent core furtherincludes a second absorbent core element placed below the firstabsorbent core element and the plurality of elastics.
 17. A disposableabsorbent article comprising: a central body defining a first waist endregion including a first end edge, a second waist end region spacedlongitudinally from the first waist end region and including a secondend edge, and a crotch region positioned therebetween; and an absorbentcore situated between the end edges, the absorbent core including afirst absorbent core element including superabsorbent particles andimparting absorbent properties, and extending laterally across thecrotch region, and a plurality of spaced apart elastics incorporatedwith the first core element; and wherein said plurality of elastics areadhered to the first core element at a plurality of adhesion locationspositioned and spaced apart along the length of each elastic of saidplurality of said elastics adhered to the first core element to form aplurality of spaced apart ridges in the first core element in betweenadhesion locations; and wherein the adhesion locations associated witheach elastic are aligned with adhesion locations on other elastics ofsaid plurality of said elastics adhered to the first core element toform a plurality of spaced apart sets of adhesion locations that formridges that are extended and spaced between sets of adhesion locations;and wherein the absorbent core further includes a second absorbent coreelement placed below the first absorbent core element and the pluralityof elastics incorporated therewith, the second absorbent core elementincluding a plurality of elastics incorporated therewith, each of theplurality of elastics forming a narrowed region of the respectiveabsorbent core element, wherein narrowed regions of the core elementsare positioned adjacent one another to substantially form a narrowedregion of the absorbent core.
 18. The disposable absorbent article ofclaim 17, wherein the absorbent core further includes a material layerpositioned below the first core element and the plurality of elasticsincorporated therewith and a second material layer positioned below thesecond core element and the plurality of elastics incorporatedtherewith.
 19. The disposable absorbent article of claim 17, wherein theelastics of each of the plurality of elastics are longitudinally spacedapart and include adhesion locations that are longitudinally aligned toform longitudinally extending, laterally spaced apart ridges.
 20. Thedisposable absorbent article of claim 17, wherein the ridges are spacedapart to form a plurality of longitudinally extending void spaces belowsaid ridges and a plurality of channels between laterally spaced apartridges.
 21. The disposable absorbent article of claim 17, wherein saidplurality of elastics of said second core element includes elasticsadhered thereto at a plurality of adhesion locations, and wherein theadhesion locations of the second core element associated with each saidelastic are longitudinally aligned with adhesion locations of the secondcore element on others of said elastics in the plurality of elastics ofthe second core element to form a plurality of longitudinally alignedand laterally spaced apart sets of adhesion locations of the second coreelement that form ridges that are longitudinally extended and spacedlaterally between sets of adhesion locations of the second core element.22. The disposable absorbent article of claim 17, wherein said pluralityof elastics incorporated with the first core element and said pluralityof elastics incorporated with the second core element are respectivelyadhered to said first and second core elements at said adhesionlocations.
 23. The disposable absorbent article of claim 22, wherein aplurality of ridges are formed in the second core element such that aplurality of mutually spaced apart and extended void spaces are formedbetween the core elements.
 24. The disposable absorbent article of claim23, wherein each of said void spaces is formed between a ridge on thefirst core element and a corresponding ridge on the second core elementthat protrudes in a direction away from the first core element.
 25. Adisposable absorbent article comprising: a central body defining a firstwaist end region including a first end edge, a second waist end regionspaced longitudinally from the first waist end region and including asecond end edge, and a crotch region positioned therebetween; and anabsorbent core situated between the end edges, the absorbent coreincluding a first absorbent core element and a plurality of elasticsattached to the first core element; and a second absorbent core elementand a plurality of elastics attached to the second core element, thefirst and second core elements being superimposed to provide a narrowedregion of the absorbent core in the crotch region; wherein for each coreelement, one elastic of said plurality of elastics of the core elementextends longitudinally along a side margin of the core element and isdisposed in a central region of the core element to form a concavity inthe core element, wherein the central regions of the first and secondcore elements and the concavities thereof provide, at least partially,the narrowed region, wherein the concavities and the longitudinallyextending elastics are situated on portions of the narrowed regionoutside a portion provided by superimposed portions of the first andsecond core elements; and wherein each of said plurality of elastics ofeach core element is disposed incorporated with the respective coreelement and within opposite side margins of the respective core element.26. A disposable absorbent article comprising: a central body defining afirst waist end region including a first end edge, a second waist endregion spaced longitudinally from the first waist end region andincluding a second end edge, and a crotch region positionedtherebetween; and an absorbent core situated between the end edges, theabsorbent core including at least one absorbent core element includingsuperabsorbent particles and imparting absorbent properties, andextending laterally across the crotch region, and a plurality of spacedapart elastics incorporated with the core element and attached to theabsorbent core element such that the absorbent core element is laterallycontracted in a narrowed region of the core element about the pluralityof elastics; and wherein said plurality of elastics are adhered to thecore element at a plurality of adhesion locations positioned and spacedapart along the length of each elastic of said plurality of elasticsadhered to the core element to form a plurality of spaced apart ridgesin the core element in between adhesion locations; and wherein theadhesion locations associated with each elastic are aligned withadhesion locations on other elastics of said plurality of elasticsadhered to the core element to form a plurality of spaced apart sets ofadhesion locations that form ridges that are extended and spaced betweensets of adhesion locations; and a topsheet disposed over the absorbentcore such that mutually-spaced apart and extended void spaces are formedbetween the topsheet and the absorbent core.
 27. A disposable absorbentarticle comprising: a central body defining a first waist end regionincluding a first end edge, a second waist end region spacedlongitudinally from the first waist end region and including a secondend edge, and a crotch region positioned therebetween; and an absorbentcore situated between the end edges, the absorbent core including afirst absorbent core element including superabsorbent particles andextending laterally across the crotch region and a plurality of elasticsthat are generally laterally extended, mutually longitudinally spacedapart and attached to the first absorbent core element such that thefirst absorbent core element is laterally contracted in a narrowedregion of the first core element about the plurality of elastics; andwherein the absorbent core has a shape that includes a pair of endregions that are non-elasticized and have a lateral width wider than alateral width of the narrowed region; wherein each of said plurality ofelastics extends laterally from a location proximate one side margin ofthe first core element in the narrowed region to a location proximate anopposite side margin of the first core element in the narrowed region;and wherein the plurality of elastics are disposed together in oneconcentration of elastics in a central region of the first core elementbetween the end regions and within the side margins of the first coreelement, and wherein the elastics are arranged in longitudinally spacedapart rows; and wherein the rows of said elastics are arranged in thenarrowed region in rows of varying pitch to define a curved shape tosaid narrowed region of the first core element.
 28. The disposableabsorbent article of claim 27, wherein the absorbent core furtherincludes a second core element, said plurality of elastics beingdisposed between said first core element and said second core element.29. The disposable absorbent article of claim 27, wherein the absorbentcore includes the first core element formed from materials impartingabsorbent properties and a second core element formed from materialsimparting absorbent properties, the second core element superimposingthe first core element to form a multi-layer primary absorbent region ofthe absorbent core having an absorption capacity per unit area increasedfrom an absorption capacity per unit area in the end regions of theabsorbent core; and wherein the multi-layer absorbent regionsubstantially coincides with the narrowed region; and wherein each ofthe first and second core elements includes a plurality of elasticsincorporated therewith to form a narrowed region of the respective coreelement; and wherein the narrowed regions of the core elements arepositioned adjacent one another to substantially form the narrowedregion of the absorbent core.
 30. The disposable absorbent article ofclaim 27, wherein ends of the plurality of elastics are positionedproximate the side margins to provide a concavity in each said sidemargin proximate the plurality of elastics.
 31. A disposable absorbentarticle comprising: a central body defining a first waist end regionincluding a first end edge, a second waist end region spacedlongitudinally from the first waist end region and including a secondend edge, and a crotch region positioned therebetween; and an absorbentcore situated between the end edges, the absorbent core including afirst absorbent core element including superabsorbent particles andextending laterally across the crotch region and a plurality of elasticsthat are generally laterally extended, mutually longitudinally spacedapart and attached to the first absorbent core element such that thefirst absorbent core element is laterally contracted in a narrowedregion of the first core element about the plurality of elastics; andwherein the absorbent core has a shape that includes a pair of endregions that are non-elasticized and have a lateral width wider than alateral width of the narrowed region; wherein each of said plurality ofelastics extends laterally from a location proximate one side margin ofthe first core element in the narrowed region to a location proximate anopposite side margin of the first core element in the narrowed region;and wherein the plurality of elastics are disposed together in oneconcentration of elastics in a central region of the first core elementbetween the end regions and within the side margins of the first coreelement, and wherein the plurality of elastics are arranged inlongitudinally spaced apart rows; and wherein the plurality of elasticsare placed within said absorbent core.
 32. The disposable absorbentarticle of claim 31, wherein the absorbent core includes the first coreelement formed from materials imparting absorbent properties and asecond core element formed from materials imparting absorbentproperties, the second core element superimposing the first core elementto form a multi-layer primary absorbent region of the absorbent corehaving an absorption capacity per unit area increased from an absorptioncapacity per unit area in the end regions of the absorbent core; andwherein the multi-layer absorbent region substantially coincides withthe narrowed region; and wherein each of the first and second coreelements includes a plurality of elastics incorporated therewith to forma narrowed region of the respective core element; and wherein thenarrowed regions of the core elements are positioned adjacent oneanother to substantially form the narrowed region of the absorbent core.33. The disposable absorbent article of claim 32, wherein ends of theplurality of elastics are positioned proximate the side margins toprovide a concavity in each said side margin proximate the plurality ofelastics.